Students will hear Brier’s speech starting at 8:20 a.m., and the last program at 1 p.m. at the high school.

Some of the questions raised are: How are farmers using science and technology to grow healthier food? What’s the impact on our food, animal care and the environment?

“Brier is working hard to help young people understand modern agriculture and why farmers are using science and technology to raise healthier pigs,” said Sheila Dressman, with the National Pork Board Speakers Bureau. “Steve will do a 40 minute presentation using videos and PowerPoint slides, and will do a question and answer session with the students.”

Brier was at the high school in January 2013, talking to students in the family and consumer science.

“Farmers who raise pigs have been able to make great progress in animal health, food safety and protecting the environment,” said Brier in a prepared statement. “And farmers know they must always keep learning and working to get better at what they do.”

Farmers now use 41 percent less water and 78 percent less land to raise pigs than they did 50 years ago.

“Modern barns, a focus on nutrition and animal care mean pigs live healthier lives than ever before,” said Brier. “And, healthy pigs mean healthy food. For example, pork tenderloin today is as lean as a skinless chicken breast and is certified by the American Heart Association as a heart-healthy food.”

Brier has been a volunteer speaker since 2005.

His presentation materials will be available to students.

“I’d like to thank East Newton High School for giving me an opportunity to share with these students what farmers are doing to make sure safe and healthy food gets to their dinner table today and in the future,” he said.

Missouri pork production generates more than $1.1 billion of economic activity and provides Missourians with over 32,000 direct and support jobs.